National Anthem

Forget Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Carol or even Home Alone: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is the quintessential American holiday movie of the last century. See for yourself tonight when Clark Griswold once again battles trashy relatives, uppity neighbors and a psychotic squirrel at Movie and a Martini, an adults-only event at the Wildlife Experience, 10035 South Peoria Street in Parker.

"We get people who come dressed as cousin Eddie, in bathrobes and everything," says Tori Labs, spokeswoman for the Wildlife Experience, of the film's fanatical followers. But pajamas and a hunting cap aren't required to get into this holiday soiree: $25 gets you access to the screening, two holiday-themed martinis and some pre-show popcorn and snacks, as well as Lampoon-inspired trivia and door prizes. Admission is $20 for members, $25 for non-members; doors open at 5:30 p.m., martinis are served at 6:30, and the film starts at 7:30.

Not a martini lover? Watch for the museum's next round of films: Whiskey and a Western will debut in 2012. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 720-488-3344 or visit www.thewildlifeexperience.org.
Wed., Dec. 7, 6:30 p.m., 2011